Mount Gahinga is one of the Virunga volcanoes, but a dormant volcano with its last eruption being unknown, yet it is also estimated to be the smallest of the Virunga mountains. This mountain is situated on the border of Rwanda and Uganda, that is, southwest of Uganda in the Kisoro district and northwest of Rwanda. The name “Gahinga” originated from the local language spoken in the region, which is Kinyarwanda/ Rufumbira, meaning a “pile of stones”. Mount Gahinga is elevated at 3,474 meters high with a caldera at the peak. This swampy caldera is about 180 meters wide. This mountain is also in the Mufumbira ranges and is one of the 8 chains of mountains that spread across the 3 countries, that is Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mount Gahinga is on the left-hand side of Mount Muhabura, the highest mountain of the Virunga Range, and on the right-hand side is Mount Sabinyo as viewed from Uganda. Mount Gahinga is a stratovolcano believed to be about 100,000 years old and is also the second youngest of the volcanoes.
Mgahinga Mountain Gorilla National Park, commonly known and visited for its unique mountain gorillas and golden monkey species, is located on this mountain and also acquired its name from the Gahinga Mountain. There is so much to do in this park, including hiking this mountain, which is given less attention, but is a great hiking option as it is less strenuous and a one-day hike. You may love hiking, but are not physically capable, the hike to the summit of Mount Gahinga is the most recommended. The hike to the summit starts from Ntebeko and goes all around and back. You may spend about 6 to 8 hours of moderate difficulty until you reach the summit of this volcano. The 2 km stretch of bamboo forest along this hike is also a thrilling and great encounter before you reach the summit, with a possible sight of the mountain gorillas at a distance, golden monkeys, and the water/bushbucks. On reaching the summit, you will finally see the 180km swamp at the top with a once Crater Lake point. The nature view is really breathtaking, and you may have a picnic with great photography at the top.
The hike to any of the Virunga Volcanoes and Mount Gahinga inclusive would cost you only 80 dollars as an international traveler, whereas East African citizens have to part with only 50,000 Ugandan shillings to get a permit to hike to the top and back. Before going on a hike, it is important to read and know more about the volcano and what to expect along the way until the summit, so as to prepare accordingly.
Essentials: An appropriate attire for hikers usually recommended is light but protective, that is, long trousers and long-sleeved tops, so as to avoid irritation from the plants and insects found along the way. Also, make sure to have a good pair of hiking shoes that you are sure of to ease your hike. We usually advise on long-hour hikes to have a pair that you have used before and are well versed with to avoid negative surprises like swelling in your feet or pain. Other essentials to check with are a hiking stick, raincoat, and cap, as the weather could change at any time. Also, get yourself a porter to carry your bag, and they may also give you more local information about the region as they are well versed with it.
Porters are a good choice because they can also be morale boosters as they chat you up on the mountain and care for you, especially if you are a solo traveler in a big group on the hike. Also, check if you are physically capable of doing the hike, or if it is going to be your first hike, you may as well start preparing a few months before your hike by running or hiking smaller hills and also check with your doctor if you have any health complications, as it can be tricky once on the hike and you are challenged health-wise. Your doctor may be able to advise what you can do and what you may not be able to.
Hiking is a physically demanding activity, but refreshing along the way to the summit and back. Get in touch with us to organize your tour to the lost jewel of Mount Gahinga and see what this mountain has to offer
